Don't forget to 'give thanks' after the interview process

Published 10:20 pm, Thursday, November 21, 2013

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Kimberly Thompson

Kimberly Thompson

Don't forget to 'give thanks' after the interview process

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Talking about gratitude is a hot topic, especially during the holiday season with Thanksgiving approaching. However, showing gratitude counts in a job search and could be the deciding factor in a job offer.

In a career transition, it's easy to assume everyone knows you are thankful, especially after countless meetings and email exchanges, but taking the time to actually express your gratitude is a good habit.

Approximately 10 percent of job candidates send thank-you notes, and that suggests a lethargic view of showing gratitude.

Being appreciative may not guarantee you will land the job, but if you are in a close race with another candidate, writing a well-crafted letter might be just what the employer needed in making a decision.

Sending a good thank-you note gives the employer two good reasons to hire you, that you were paying attention in the interview and listened to what was important to them. It also sends a signal to the employer that you are a motivated candidate who is highly interested in the position.

Expressing gratitude is not all about the interview, it can be articulated in response to a rejection letter. That's exactly what happened to a job candidate who came in second place after numerous interviews with the same employer.

To the candidate's credit, he sent a letter to the interviewer reflecting his gratitude toward the time spent during the interviews and expressed their desire for future opportunities.

Two months later, the first candidate left and then he was offered the job. The letter made an impact on the interviewer, who remembered the gracious attitude.

Here are some do's and don'ts to keep in mind when expressing your gratitude to a potential employer.

Back up your interests with your qualifications, helping to make a stronger impression. Also thank everyone involved in the interview process. Personalize the note and make mention of specific areas discussed in the interview.

Don't use a generic "thank you for your time" note, which could sound insincere. Don't assume that your letter is not important, as you never know who will read the letter or the impact it may have.

If you still have mixed thoughts on the importance of a thank-you letter, a survey from Career Builder indicates 22 percent of hiring decision-makers are less likely to hire you if you don't send a one.